Saab 9-3 definitive oil thread
OK, this is something I've always wanted to see - a definitive oil thread. A thread stuck at the top that people will see and read and have their questions answered. 9-3SS guys know that the same exact question can be asked several times EACH WEEK on this topic. Please read and interpret the FAQ items carefully - chances are the answer to your question is below!
*Disclaimer*
The following recommendations are based on recommendations from Saab/GM and discussions among Saab owners. They are NOT "official" in any way. Make your own decisions and perform all work on your car at your own risk!
1. What is the best oil for my 2003-present 9-3?
An endless discussion can ensue over which brand and viscosity of oil is the best, but let's stick to what Saab and General Motors recommends - any synthetic oil meeting or exceeding GM-LL-A-025 spec. Europeans seem to have a wider selection of oils available that meet this spec, but in the United States, two major brand oils meet GM-LL-A-025 - Mobil1 0W-40 and Castrol Syntec 0W-30. There are also other options from Amsoil, Elf and others. Saab specifically recommends Mobil1 and Saab Turbo Oil (now discontinued), but the point here is that the recommended specification should meet GM-LL-A-025.
2. How long can I use my GM-LL-A-025 spec synthetic oil before it needs to be changed?
Most drivers may leave their oil in for as long as the SID (service information display) recommends, or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. Owners of 2003-2005 9-3s have a SID that's calibrated for a 15,000 mile oil change, so keep that in mind and stick to a 10,000 mile interval. Generally, the SID adjusts its recommendations based on driving habits, but if you put a lot of wear and tear on an engine (stop and go traffic, short trips, etc.), then you may wish to change your oil earlier.
3. Can I use a non-GM-LL-A-025 spec synthetic oil in my Saab?
Yes! You may. While the recommended oil meets or exceeds GM-LL-A-025, a non-spec synthetic oil may be used as well. However, the SID bases its recommendations on GM-LL-A-025 spec oil being used, so it is probably best to disregard the oil life monitoring provided by the SID. Your engine will not fall apart, although it is probably best to change your oil every 7,000-10,000 miles.
4. Can I use non-synthetic mineral oil in my Saab?
Yes, although this is not recommended due to your car's turbocharged engine. If you or a mechanic have used mineral oil by mistake, it shouldn't damage the engine - although be aware that while mineral oils have improved over the years, they still have a substantially lower life than synthetics. You'll want to change your oil and replace it with a recommended synthetic within 3,000 - 5,000 miles.
5. Will Brand XX work in my car?
Please read the back of the bottle to see if it meets GM-LL-A-025 spec, and read the recommendations above. If it is not GM-LL-A-025, see Question 3.
6. Which brand is better? Brand X or Brand Y?
There really is no consensus on which oil brand is better, and it's been discussed a hundred times. Most 9-3 owners, at least in the United States, use Mobil1 0W-40 because it is the most readily available and can occasionally be found on sale. Some owners have their loyalties to a certain brand, while some find the best deal. Follow our recommendations, and you should have no problem.
7. Will changing my oil with a non-spec formula void my warranty?
No, it will not void your warranty.
8. I have a diesel...what do these guidelines mean for me?
These recommendations apply for diesel owners as well - except Saab recommends GM-LL-B-025 spec oil for diesel models. GM-LL-A-025 is only for gasoline engines.
IN SUMMARY:
- The recommended oil for your 9-3 will meet GM-LL-A-025 specifications (GM-LL-B-025 for diesels).
- If you use the recommended specification oil, you may wait as long as 10,000 miles before changing it, depending on driving habits. Use your discretion.
- You may also use a non-recommended spec synthetic oil in your car. Nothing horrible will happen, but disregard your SID's oil life monitor and change your oil every 7,000-10,000 miles.
- Mineral oil is not recommended, and should be changed within 3,000-5,000 miles and replaced with a synthetic oil.
That's what I've come up with so far, folks. Hopefully we can avoid some of the repeat questions we've seen in the past with a good write-up here.